Sony SmartWatch 3 now shipping from Google Play

With beautiful, round-faced wearable pieces like Motorola’s Moto 360 or LG’s G Watch R available, as well as ultra-low-cost smartwatches such as the Asus ZenWatch, and Samsung’s Gear S supporting standalone 3G, you were probably under the impression no one cared much about Sony’s SmartWatch 3.

Yet the company’s first Android Wear device is important enough to warrant a Google Play release. It’s also worthy of Verizon backing, and so popular with America’s largest carrier that Big Red already ran out of stock.

Of course, it’s entirely possible Big Red didn’t receive a lot of inventory to start with. But we doubt that, since the Play Store lists the SmartWatch 3 as leaving warehouses in “1-2 business days”, whereas Verizon estimates the next batch as coming “by November 20”.

Available for $249.99 via either channel, the waterproof gadget can be pre-ordered on Amazon too, where it’s also due on November 20. The difference is the online retailer is the only seller offering a snazzy, lime-painted version.

Sony’s SmartWatch 3 is one of the most productive and robust Android Wear family members. It doesn’t care if it rains or snows, and it comes with built-in GPS to accurately and independently track your outdoor fitness activities.